Embark on an unforgettable motor yacht journey through New Zealand’s most stunning cruising grounds—from the Bay of Islands to the Hauraki Gulf—culminating in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. With over 30 potential stopovers, each day offers new anchorages, breathtaking scenery, and a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Cruising as far east as Great Barrier and Great Mercury Islands, the itinerary is shaped by weather and discovery. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant reefs, kayak secluded inlets, and hike coastal trails with sweeping ocean views. Along the way, visit island communities, discover Māori heritage sites, and unwind in remote, tranquil bays.
Evenings are for anchoring in quiet harbours, enjoying sunset drinks, barbecued seafood, and the sounds of nature. Spend your downtime reading on deck, swimming off the stern, or simply soaking in the ever-changing coastal landscape.
Whether you’re drawn to big-game fishing, paddle boarding, or simply lazing with a glass of wine in hand, this voyage offers the ultimate mix of comfort and exploration.
Cruise through the iconic Bay of Islands
With over 140 subtropical islands, the Bay of Islands is rich with secluded coves, marine life, and anchorages steeped in Māori history and coastal heritage to explore.
Visit Great Barrier Island’s wild east coast
Hike lush trails, soak in natural hot springs, and explore the island’s rugged beauty—one of New Zealand’s most remote and pristine cruising destinations.
Swim and snorkel at Great Mercury Island
Dive into crystal clear waters and vibrant reef systems surrounding this privately owned island paradise, only accessible by boat.
Discover hidden coves and marine sanctuaries
Kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel in calm, protected bays teeming with sea life, from colourful reef fish to stingrays and dolphins.
Experience Māori heritage and coastal culture
Visit historic island sites and coastal settlements where local stories, ancient pā sites, and cultural landmarks bring the journey to life.
Sail into Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour
Conclude your voyage with a spectacular arrival into New Zealand’s most famous harbour, framed by city skylines and iconic sailing culture.
Opua Marina, Bay of Islands
First port of entry for yachts arriving from Pacific crossings.
Social hub for global cruisers, with weather briefings and stories at the Opua Cruising Club.
Motuarohia Island / Roberton Island
Historic pā site and Cook’s 1769 landing, a key site of early Māori–European interaction.
Scenic lagoon and walking track to twin lookouts, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Islands.
Urupukapuka Island
Largest island in the Bay of Islands, rich in Māori archaeological sites and coastal walking trails.
Conservation hotspot, part of Project Island Song - home to reintroduced native birds and predator-free bush.
Whangamumu Harbour
Ruins of New Zealand’s only land-based whaling station, accessible via a scenic bush track.
Well-protected anchorage, surrounded by steep green hills and often visited by dolphins and seabirds.
Poor Knights Islands
Explore sea caves. Rikoriko Cave is vast enough to have reportedly sheltered a WWII-era Japanese sub.
Swim and snorkel in fully protected marine reserve teeming with untouched marine life.
Mokohinau Islands
Remote, rugged group with crystal-clear waters, ideal for fishing in untouched conditions.
Iconic 1883 lighthouse on Burgess Island—a remote sentinel with sweeping sea views and bird colonies.
Port Fitzroy, Great Barrier Island
Deep, sheltered harbour ringed by bush-covered hills—one of NZ’s finest natural anchorages.
Hike to the top of Mount Hobson / Hirakimata, passing rare kauri snails and historic tramway remnants.
Great Mercury Island / Ahuahu
Privately owned island with archaeological treasures, including pā sites and obsidian tools.
Immaculate white-sand beaches and clear waters, ideal for paddleboarding, snorkelling, and off-grid picnicking.
Kawau Island
Mansion House, former home of Governor Sir George Grey, now a historic museum in landscaped gardens.
Copper mine ruins, accessible via forest walk—offering a glimpse into the island’s 19th-century mining era.
Moturekareka Island
Wreck of the Rewa, a full-size steel ship deliberately sunk in 1930 to create a breakwater—still visible and swimmable.
Calm, clear waters ideal for snorkelling, with abundant fish life sheltered by the rusting hulk.
Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Superyacht marina and America’s Cup legacy zone, alive with sailing history and marine activity.
Wynyard Quarter and Silo Park, a short stroll away with food trucks, silo art, and waterfront events.
Fishing in rich coastal waters
Cast a line in some of the country’s most productive fishing grounds. Target species like snapper and kingfish with guidance from the crew.
Hike to panoramic coastal lookouts
Enjoy walks along native bush tracks and headlands. Take in sweeping views over bays, inlets, and the endless Pacific horizon.
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Sea Breeze III, a beautifully restored classic superyacht offering timeless elegance, modern comfort, and immersive ocean experiences. Whether you’re unwinding on deck beneath the stars, exploring vibrant coral reefs, or sharing fine food and good company in a secluded anchorage, Sea Breeze III invites you to slow down and savour the journey. With attentive crew, spacious living areas, and effortless access to nature, every voyage is a chance to reconnect—with the sea, with each other, and with yourself.
Sea Breeze III can host 12 guests overnight or 99 guests for a day event, in many different spaces. Offering several dining areas, both al fresco on the main Pelorus Deck, the Ulysses Deck or inside the Saloon.
Built-in 1976, originally christened Ulysses and later owned by Graeme Hart, this beautiful classic 105-foot superyacht showcases the very best in craftsmanship & style.
Thought-provoking details assure no whim, wish, or request is too small for her accommodating crew. Whether a bohemian brunch on the Bridge Deck, sipping craft cocktails and taking in views at sunset, or feasting into the evening with a stunning dinner… the food and drinks on Sea Breeze III are totally tantalising!
We pay homage to Sea Breeze III’s 1970's style by weaving in her original rich teak panelling & unique furniture. Lush & textured coverings, designer pieces, and vintage finds harmonise old and new.
Beautiful spaces are infused with colour to soothe the senses with laidback luxury & comfort that will also create a feeling of home.
Ensuring you have a great nights sleep is our top priority. Blissfully comfortable mattresses, sheets and pillows create a feeling of sanctuary, comfort & style. Our restorative bedrooms, make your home away from home personal and special.
This whimsical superyacht offers several different dining & entertaining options, both al fresco or inside the saloon.
Berth and cabin options
Aotea: Stateroom - includes king bed, couch, TV and private ensuite. Available as private cabin. 240v power outlets.
Waikawa: Suite - includes 3 berths and private ensuite. Available as private cabin. 240v power outlets.
Kiwitahi: Suite - includes 3 berths and private ensuite. Available as private cabin. 240v power outlets.
Bridge Deck: Suite - includes 1 convertible berth and shared bathroom. Available as private cabin each night. Berth is made up each night and packed away each morning. 240v power outlets.
Embark on a journey through New Zealand's vibrant culinary landscape, where each meal onboard reflects the region’s rich flavours and local traditions. Throughout this breathtaking adventure, guests enjoy dishes inspired by the freshest, sustainably sourced ingredients from the land and sea.
Mornings begin with energising breakfasts that highlight the region's finest produce, while lunches are light and flavourful, emphasising the abundance of local seafood, meats and seasonal greens. Evenings bring refined dinners featuring high-quality meats and vegetables, complemented by subtle hints of native herbs and spices that showcase New Zealand’s unique character.
Desserts are a delightful exploration of local flavours, capturing the essence of New Zealand's fruits and natural sweetness. Paired with a selection of exceptional local wines, from crisp whites to robust reds, each meal reflects a commitment to the purity and freshness of New Zealand cuisine. Dining onboard becomes an immersive experience, celebrating the natural abundance and culinary heritage of the region.
29 Dec 2025
Arrive at the vessel in Viaduct Harbour by 10am (or stay onboard the night before).
Depart Viaduct Harbour around 12pm
29 Dec 2025 - 6 Jan 2026
Explore a range of islands in the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Islands, with a passage plan based on weather
7 Jan 2026
Return to the Viaduct Marina in Auckland by 2pm
Depart Auckland Airport after 5pm
Inclusions
Your package includes; all meals onboard, accommodation onboard and marina fees. Wash and dry laundry services are available onboard.
Meals and refreshments
All chef prepared meals, snacks and a selection of alcoholic (beer and wine) and non-alcoholic drinks are included.
Exclusions
Your package excludes; accommodation and meals ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports.
Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.